Shukubo (temple stay)
Jokyoji Temple was built around 1171. It is located in downtown Kyoto. Modern accommodation facilities have been built in connection with the main hall.
The first floor is a stylish lobby with a Japanese feel. Incense was burning at the entrance. There were elephant sculptures and guardian dog statues placed here and there.
I checked in and received my key card. The room I stayed in had a double bed and was equipped with a toilet, shower and sink. The overall design is based on black wood grain, giving it a special feel.
The room was equipped with a large panel-type TV monitor, a refrigerator, and a safe. Towels, bath towels, nightwear, toothbrushes, and razors were also provided.
There were four cans of mineral water in the refrigerator, which we could drink freely. There was also a kettle, teacups, cups and tea bags.
When I turned on the TV, a guide to nearby temples appeared. Jokyoji Temple is a Jodo sect temple, so the temples introduced were mainly Chion-in Temple and Konkai-Komyoji Temple, which are of the same sect.
The congestion status of the baths was also displayed. After checking this out, I headed to the large public bath on the second floor. There were ink paintings on the walls and healing music was playing. I was able to take a very comfortable bath.
Morning service
The next morning, I attended service. We gathered in the lobby at 6:40 in the morning, and a staff member guided us to the main hall next door.
The main hall has Amitabha enshrined at the front and beautiful flowers painted on the ceiling.
While I was waiting, the bell rang and the head priest entered the hall. The service began, and sutras were chanted while striking the wooden durm. The attendees offered incense one by one. Prayers were also offered for the safety and good health of the family.
After the service, we also viewed the temple treasures in the main hall. There was a lot to see, including ancient Buddhist statues, hanging scrolls, and demon roof tiles. The explanation by the chief priest was also enjoyable.
Breakfast
We had breakfast in the restaurant on the second floor. We were able to choose from three courses.
The menu includes rice, miso soup, steamed egg custard, sesame tofu, grilled fish, gluten, rolled omelette, ginkgo nuts, salt-grilled mushrooms, simmered pumpkin, Arima-style simmered burdock, boiled baby potatoes, conger eel jelly, mashed tofu salad, blanched Japanese spinach, and pickles.
The steamed eel was garnished with plum, giving each bite a taste of sweetness and tartness. The other dishes are also very Kyoto-like and have a refined taste.
Finally, we had dessert and coffee. I got up early so I was able to eat my fill in the morning.
